Sunday, March 27, 2011

Daring Bakers March 2011 - Meringue Coffee Cake

The March 2011 Daring Baker’s Challenge was hosted by Ria of Ria’s Collection and Jamie of Life’s a Feast. Ria and Jamie challenged The Daring Bakers to bake a yeasted Meringue Coffee Cake. It seemed pretty simple, although I'd never thought to bake meringue inside of something else, and I had no idea how it would turn out.

I decided to make this with what I already had in my house, which meant my filling was orange zest, cardamom-sugar, hazelnuts, and chocolate chips. When the meringue bakes, most of it kind of absorbs into the nebulous center of the coffee cake (which is really more of a rich dough, almost like a brioche). There were a few crunchy parts that squeezed out between the cracks, and I liked that flavor. I wish there had been more of that texture inside, but I'm not sure how to make that happen!

This is a great framework recipe that I'd love to play more with. Some of the savory versions people have been making look amazing too. Please click on the links at the top to see the recipe as posted by the hostesses.

So good to see you in my comment section again, Jenny. Whenever I pop by here or see you at my site, I always think 'cheesecake' :) Still the best cheesecake ever!

That said, your cake turned out gorgeous, really bulging with all those yummies you slipped in from your fridge and cupboards. Love the orange, chocolate and hazelnuts. I also have been craving a savory version from some I've seen on other blogs. Awesome dough! Wanna wrap everything in it!